The Testament

by Taras Shevchenko

Dig my grave and raise my barrow By the Dnieper-side In Ukraina, my own land, A fair land and wide. I will lie and watch the cornfields, Listen through the yearsTo the river voices roaring,Roaring in my ears.

When I hear the call Of the racing flood, Loud with hated blood I will leave them all, Fields and hills; and force my way Right up to the Throne Where God sits alone; Clasp His feet and pray … But till that day What is God to me?

Bury me, be done with me, Rise and break your chain, Water your new liberty With blood for rain. Then, in the mighty family Of all men that are free, Maybe sometimes, very softly You will speak of me?